Hundreds of thousands of UK pensioners could improve their household budgeting with a simple change to how they receive their State Pension income. Many are unaware that the payment frequency, typically set by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) as every four weeks, can be altered upon request.
How to Switch Your Payment Schedule
According to Sandra Wrench, a former DWP employee with over four decades of experience, the process is straightforward for those already receiving their pension. The key requirement is that payments must already be going directly into a bank account.
"If you have already made a claim for State Pension and are in receipt of four-weekly payments, and you want weekly payments, then phone the DWP change of circumstances telephone number on 0800 731 0469, and request weekly payments," Mrs Wrench advised in an interview with the Daily Record.
Alternatively, pensioners can write to The Pension Service at Post Handling Site A, Wolverhampton WV98 1AF. The letter should include your full name, address, National Insurance number, and a clear request to change to weekly State Pension payments.
Planning Ahead for New Claimants
For those approaching retirement who have not yet started claiming, the process is even simpler. Mrs Wrench explained that future claimants should write "Please pay my pension weekly" in the information box on the official State Pension claim form. This ensures the preferred frequency is set up from the very first payment.
This flexibility is crucial for financial planning, as the standard four-weekly cycle does not align neatly with monthly bill schedules. The New State Pension is currently worth up to £230.25 per week, or £921 every four-week payment period. For many, especially those accustomed to a weekly wage, managing a larger lump sum every four weeks can prove challenging.
Budgeting Benefits of More Frequent Payments
The former DWP insider highlighted the practical advantages of switching to a weekly schedule. "From your 'budget point of view' it may be easier to be paid weekly then you know exactly how much State Pension has been paid into your account each month," she said.
She further noted that the four-weekly pay frequency "can cause problems financially and make it difficult for them to budget" for individuals used to a weekly income rhythm. More frequent payments provide a regular, predictable cash flow that mirrors typical household expense cycles.
It is important to note that the payment frequency change does not alter the total annual amount received. Pensioners will receive the same yearly sum, simply divided into more regular instalments.
Upcoming State Pension Rates for 2026/27
The government has confirmed increased rates for the next financial year, which claimants should factor into their planning:
Full New State Pension
- Weekly: £241.30 (rising from £230.25)
- Four-weekly: £965.20
- Annual amount: £12,547
Full Basic State Pension
- Weekly: £184.90 (rising from £176.45)
- Four-weekly: £739.60
- Annual amount: £9,614
Other pension and Pension Credit rates will also see increases from April 2026. The standard minimum guarantee for Pension Credit, for example, will rise to £238.00 weekly for singles and £363.25 for couples.
Pensioners considering a change to their payment frequency are encouraged to contact the DWP's Pension Service directly using the details provided to discuss the option best suited to their financial management needs.
